When one is in the great outdoors, extreme environmental conditions can pose a serious threat to health. Hypothermia, heatstroke, dehydration, altitude sickness, or food poisoning are all risks that can jeopardize an expedition and endanger the hiker's life. Knowing how to recognize the signs of these issues, applying first aid measures, and anticipating these dangers is essential to ensure survival in isolated environments.
In this article, discover how to manage environmental issues and adopt best practices to protect yourself from them.
Hypothermia: The Cold, A Formidable Enemy
Hypothermia occurs when the body temperature drops below 35°C, leading to a decrease in vital functions. It can be caused by prolonged exposure to cold, inappropriate clothing, humidity, and wind. The first symptoms include intense shivering, loss of coordination, mental confusion, and extreme fatigue. If not treated quickly, it can lead to loss of consciousness and cardiac arrest.
In the event of hypothermia, it is essential to gradually warm the victim by sheltering them from wind and moisture. All wet clothing should be removed, they should be wrapped in a survival blanket, and given warm drinks (without alcohol or caffeine). If they are conscious, encouraging them to move slightly to generate body heat can be beneficial.
Insolation and Heat Stroke: When the Temperature Rises
Heatstroke and sunstroke are caused by prolonged exposure to the sun, combined with poor hydration. Sunstroke leads to headaches, nausea, red skin, and great weakness. Heatstroke is more severe and is characterized by a very high body temperature (above 40°C), dry and burning skin, disturbances of consciousness, and a risk of coma.
In case of sunstroke, the victim should be placed in the shade, laid down, and rehydrated immediately with cool water and electrolytes. For a heat stroke, it is imperative to cool the body by applying damp cloths to the neck, groin, and wrists, and to seek urgent medical assistance as soon as possible.
Dehydration: A Silent Trap
Dehydration occurs when the body loses more water than it takes in, disrupting the balance of vital functions. During hiking or survival situations, it is often caused by excessive sweating, low water intake, or severe diarrhea. Symptoms include a dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness, muscle cramps, and mental confusion.
To prevent dehydration, it is crucial to drink regularly, even in the absence of thirst, and to prioritize water containing electrolytes. In case of advanced symptoms, oral rehydration with a saline solution or broth is essential to restore fluid balance.
Mountain Sickness: When Altitude Becomes a Problem
The acute mountain sickness (AMS) affects hikers and climbers who ascend too quickly to high altitudes without acclimatization. It is caused by the decrease in atmospheric pressure and oxygen levels and is manifested by headaches, nausea, intense fatigue, and unusual shortness of breath.
To avoid altitude sickness, it is recommended to ascend gradually, avoid excessive exertion, and drink plenty of water. In case of symptoms, one must descend immediately to a lower altitude and rest. In severe cases, where consciousness disturbances or pulmonary and cerebral edema occur, urgent medical care is necessary.
Food Poisoning: The Danger of Contaminated Foods
The consumption of spoiled food or contaminated water can cause food poisoning, leading to diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fever. In the wild, this type of problem can lead to severe dehydration and seriously weaken a hiker.
Prevention is the best solution: always boil water before consuming it, store food in airtight containers, and avoid questionable foods. In case of poisoning, it is important to rehydrate abundantly with oral rehydration solutions and rest until recovery.
Conclusion
Environmental troubles can turn a simple adventure into a real survival challenge. Hypothermia, sunstroke, dehydration, altitude sickness, and food poisoning are dangers that await any ill-prepared adventurer.
Anticipation and knowledge of the right actions are essential to limit risks and react effectively in case of a problem. Appropriate equipment, sufficient hydration, and attentive listening to the body's signals help avoid these situations and fully enjoy the experience in the great outdoors.
